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California National Parks Grand Adventure
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Stevee Carducci
Greenwood, IN Travel Agent· 9 Years of Experience
Legacy Getaways, an independent agent with Legacy Getaways, LLC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
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I recently had the pleasure of working with Stevee for a trip that exceeded all my expectations I couldn’t recommend her enough on here an abosolute... Read More >
COUNTRIES VISITED:California
PLACES VISITED:Death Valley, Kings Canyon National Park, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Yosemite National Park
SUGGESTED DURATION:10 Days
California is home to some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring landscapes—soaring redwoods, dramatic granite cliffs, vast desertscapes, and star-filled skies. This 10-day journey takes you through Yosemite, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree National Parks, blending breathtaking scenery with meaningful moments.
Perfect for families looking to connect, couples seeking adventure and romance, photographers chasing golden light, or travelers who simply want to experience America’s great outdoors, this itinerary balances iconic must-sees with hidden gems. From walking beneath the world’s largest trees to stargazing under crystal-clear desert skies, every day brings opportunities to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Close All Days
DAY1
California
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San Francisco
Close Day
Arrival in San Francisco
Arrive in San Francisco, California’s iconic gateway city. After checking into your hotel, take time to explore Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, or stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge. Rest up for the adventure ahead as you prepare to begin your national park road trip.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Golden Gate Bridge views
Explore Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39
Overnight in San Francisco
DAY2
California
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Yosemite National Park
Close Day
San Francisco – Yosemite National Park
Depart San Francisco and journey into the Sierra Nevada mountains toward Yosemite National Park. Marvel at dramatic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and meadows as you settle in for a full day of sightseeing inside the park.
HIGHLIGHTS:
El Capitan & Half Dome views
Yosemite Valley sightseeing
Bridalveil Fall & Yosemite Falls
DAY3
California
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Yosemite National Park
Close Day
Yosemite Exploration
Spend the day immersed in Yosemite’s beauty. Drive or hike to Glacier Point for breathtaking views, explore giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove, or enjoy a scenic picnic in the valley.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glacier Point overlook
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Free time for hiking or ranger-led programs
DAY4
California
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Kings Canyon National Park
Close Day
Yosemite – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Head south toward Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. These neighboring parks are home to the world’s largest trees and spectacular canyons carved by glaciers. Stand beneath General Sherman, the largest tree on earth, and take in the peaceful forest atmosphere.
HIGHLIGHTS:
General Sherman Tree
Giant Forest Museum
Kings Canyon Scenic Byway
DAY5
California
Close Day
Sequoia Exploration
Continue your adventure in Sequoia with opportunities for hiking among giant groves, exploring crystal caves (seasonal), or simply soaking in mountain views.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Stargazing in Sequoia’s dark skies
Moro Rock climb for panoramic views
Tokopah Falls hike
DAY6
California
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Death Valley
Close Day
Sequoia – Death Valley National Park
Travel across California’s diverse landscapes to Death Valley, the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. Witness surreal desert scenery unlike anywhere else in the country.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Badwater Basin Salt Flats
Zabriskie Point at sunset
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
DAY7
California
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Death Valley
Close Day
Death Valley Exploration
Spend another day exploring the vast landscapes of Death Valley. Visit colorful Artist’s Drive, Dante’s View, and enjoy the stark beauty of desert oases.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dante’s View scenic overlook
Artist’s Palette drive
Furnace Creek Visitor Center
DAY8
California
Close Day
Death Valley – Joshua Tree National Park
Head south to Joshua Tree, where two desert ecosystems collide. Explore unique rock formations, desert flora, and iconic Joshua trees. This park is a haven for photographers, stargazers, and hikers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hidden Valley & Skull Rock
Keys View panorama
Joshua Tree stargazing
DAY9
California
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Los Angeles
Close Day
Joshua Tree – Los Angeles
Make your way to Los Angeles, where you can celebrate the end of your journey. Spend the afternoon exploring Hollywood, Santa Monica, or relax on the beach before your departure.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Santa Monica Pier
Sunset on Venice Beach
DAY10
California
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Los Angeles
Close Day
Departure from Los Angeles
Depart Los Angeles for your onward flight home, taking with you incredible memories of California’s most iconic national parks.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Morning free time in LA (optional)
Airport transfer
Return flight home
FINAL THOUGHTS
California’s national parks are as diverse as they are unforgettable. From Yosemite’s cliffs and Sequoia’s giants to Death Valley’s salt flats and Joshua Tree’s sunsets, this road trip offers adventure, love, and family memories to last a lifetime.